Punjab Greenlights 600 Electric Buses to Revolutionize Urban Transit

Following the successful launch of 27 Yutong electric buses in Lahore, the Punjab government has taken a monumental step forward. The provincial cabinet has approved the purchase of 600 additional electric buses to expand the initiative across major urban centers—including Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujranwala, and Gujrat—marking one of Punjab’s most ambitious eco-transport endeavors to date.

Electric Revolution Kicks Off in Lahore

The pilot project in Lahore began mid-February 2025 with a fleet of 27 buses imported from China’s Yutong, each equipped with GPS, Wi‑Fi, USB charging ports, CCTV cameras, accessible ramps and dedicated women’s seating  . Serving around 17,000 commuters daily on a 21 km Green Town–Railway Station route, this fleet operates at a subsidized fare between Rs 20–35, offering free rides to senior citizens, students, and persons with disabilities  .

Scaling Up: 600-Bus Expansion

Now endorsed by the provincial cabinet, the plan involves rolling out 600 electric buses across the province’s major cities, aiming to replicate Lahore’s success in places like Multan, Bahawalpur, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Dera Ghazi Khan, Gujranwala, and Gujrat. This massive rollout is expected to significantly reduce urban congestion, improve air quality, and provide commuters with a modern, sustainable travel option .

Infrastructure & Eco Benefits

Complementing the bus fleet, ambitious plans include the establishment of solar‑powered bus depots in Lahore, Multan, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, and Bahawalpur. The depot in Green Town alone will generate 1.2 MW to charge buses through renewable energy  . With a budget allocation of roughly PKR 49.5 billion for infrastructure, this scheme marks a substantial investment in Punjab’s green future  .

Policy & Legal Momentum

In March 2025, the Lahore High Court urged the provincial government to formulate a comprehensive policy transitioning from diesel to electric buses, signaling strong legal support for the initiative  . Stakeholders are also exploring converting auto-rickshaws to electric models, aiming for a province-wide cleaner transport network.

Setting International Standards

Featuring advanced amenities and accessibility features, the electric buses not only meet but often exceed global standards. Their 300 km range per charge and fast-charging capability underscore their operational efficiency  .

Why It Matters?

• Environmental Impact: Drastically cuts smog and greenhouse gas emissions in heavily polluted cities.
• Social Inclusion: Free rides for students, the elderly, and those with disabilities, plus safer, better provision for women.
• Economic Relief: Affordable fares and reduced fuel dependency translate into long-term cost savings for commuters and government alike.
• Infrastructure Boost: Solar depots reinforce Punjab’s green energy commitment.

What’s Next on the Horizon?

• Phased Launch: Deployment of the first tranche of 600 buses is slated through 2025–26.
• Supporting Infrastructure: Completion of green depots and fast-charging stations in key cities.
• Policy Rollout: Electric bus and rickshaw transition framework to be finalized soon.
• Future Expansion: Potential inclusion of additional cities and electric taxis or trams.

Punjab’s expansion to 600 electric buses across diverse urban centers represents a transformative stride for Pakistan’s sustainable public transport. With provincial cabinet backing, judicial encouragement, and infrastructure investment, this green mobility push promises cleaner air, enhanced commuter experience, and a significant environmental footprint reduction.

If you’d like, I can track progress on implementation, gather commuter responses, or compare this to similar initiatives in other countries.

Afsheen Gohar

Afsheen Gohar is a seasoned writer with a wealth of experience in crafting authentic and well-researched articles. Her dedication to delivering high-quality content is evident in her work, where she combines a passion for storytelling with a commitment to accuracy and depth. Afsheen’s writing reflects her ability to engage readers with compelling narratives while providing valuable insights on a diverse range of topics.